A trip to Rainbow Mountain, commonly known as Vinicunca or the montaa de siete hues, is essential for anybody who likes stunning vistas and breathtaking panoramas. Located in a remote area of the Andes Mountains, Rainbow Mountain Peru was formerly only accessible to hikers on the Ausangate Trek. But today, you can make a shorter 1-2 trip during your Peru holiday to see this masterpiece of Mother Nature in all its grandeur.
Overview of Vinicunca
Rainbow Mountain Peru, or Vinicunca, is covered in turquoise, scarlet, and mustard hues, providing the mountain with its distinctive look. These diverse color layers, each indicating a distinctive mineral composition, were developed over millions of ages before being revealed by the high Andes’ tectonic movements and rapid wind erosion. A glacier surrounding the peak has since disappeared due to global warming. Before the recent development of shorter 1-2 day tour routes, it was a well-liked side trip on Ausangate Trek.
Rainbow Mountain is 5200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level, over half Mount Everest’s elevation. Anyone who wants to visit this stunning location must be ready for a challenging 3-hour climb at a high altitude. The weather can make the trip more difficult because of the harsh UV rays from the elevation and the bitterly frigid temperatures. However, even reaching there could be challenging. The breathtaking view you will see once you get there will make it all worthwhile.
How to Reach there?
All trips to Rainbow Mountain Peru depart from Cusco, which served as the Inca Empire’s first capital and is the nearest big city to Machu Picchu and many other of the country’s most well-known sights. Your tour will pick you up in Cusco and then transport you south of the city for two hours to the nearby town of Pitumarca. You may begin your Rainbow Mountain hike, which is close by from here.
Rainbow Mountain Peru Hike
Depending on how fast you trek and how athletic you are, the trip to Rainbow Mountain will typically take about 3 hours. Until the final rise, the trail is generally flat. However, the difficulty comes from the elevation. Strolling is usually advised due to the pressure that high altitude can have on the body (which you should do anyhow to take in the surrounding beauty.) There are frequently horses for rent alongside the trail for people who would instead not hike. But they can only take you to the end of the level portion of the trail, where you will need to leave and walk the whole distance to the peak.
Along the route, you may encounter several llamas and alpacas kept by the locals in the area encircling Rainbow Mountain Peru. You will get expansive panoramas of the Mountain and the neighboring Red Valley once you arrive at the summit’s viewpoint point. Keep in mind to capture this breathtaking landscape on camera! You may also have the opportunity to witness other rainbow hills surrounding the peak. There are numerous colorful peaks because of the region’s fascinating topography, yet Rainbow Mountain Peru is the most spectacular.
The Ideal Time to Visit Rainbow Mountain
There are two distinct seasons in the Peruvian Andes: The dry season, generally from April through October, and the season of rainfall, which lasts from November until March. (With the months of heaviest precipitation being January and February). Since these months typically coincide with the season change, April and October are lovely. Rainbow Mountain in Peru frequently experiences snowfall during the rainy season due to its high altitude and chilly air. The hikers should pack appropriate clothing for all types of weather because it could shift quickly.
What to Pack?
- A water bottle filled to the brim.
- Food for the hike (ensuring to bring back trash with you). Residents also offer snacks and beverages near the trailhead, such as soda, water, and candies.
- If you wish to purchase a horse ride, Peruvian soles in smaller bills (S/.20 and S/.40) are required.
- Hiking boots that are cozy and have good traction.
- A cozy cap.
- Wearing layers of clothing will help you stay warm in any weather.
- Sunglasses and sun protection. Considering how intense the sun’s UV rays are at high altitudes, it is crucial to remember this.
- A camera to record the 7 color Peru Rainbow Mountains.
How high is Rainbow Mountain? How Does Altitude Sickness Affect People?
One of the top worries for tourists to Rainbow Mountain Peru is the potential for altitude sickness. Since altitude sickness can develop at elevations greater than 2,500 meters (8,000 feet) above sea level due to a lack of oxygen, its elevation of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) is significantly higher than the minimum height at which it can develop.
Mountain sickness, or “soroche” as it is known in Peru, can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Rarely, these symptoms could progress into more severe illnesses. Individuals with a history of cardiac issues should not walk the mountain because of the stress lower Oxygen levels imposed on the heart. Be careful to speak with a doctor about your concerns before traveling to Peru if you are unsure whether you should trek at Rainbow Mountain Peru. When you have determined that Peru hike is safe for after discussing any health issues with your doctor, be careful to maintain the following advice in mind:
- Always allow yourself a day or two or exercise strictly to adjust the altitude before hiking.
- Ask your doctor at home whether you can use any recommended medications to speed up adaptation to high altitudes.
- Drink coca tea, a traditional herbal cure for altitude sickness used by the locals for a long time.
- Avoid consuming large meals, alcoholic beverages, and tobacco products.
- Be sure to drink plenty of water.
FAQs
Do you require a guide to Rainbow Mountain Peru?
It is also possible to hike the mountain in one day without a guide or tour group. Your ability to complete the journey without a group largely depends on how you arrange your transportation. To begin the path, you must figure out the best way to get to the Mountain parking lot.
How long will your trip to Rainbow Mountain Peru, be?
2-day. Rainbow Mountain, located in a remote area of the Andes Mountains, was previously only accessible by hikers on the Ausangate Trek. Still, today you can see this show of pure beauty in all its splendor on a shorter 1- or 2-day trip.
Is there snow on Rainbow Mountain Peru?
It is advisable to go to Rainbow Mountain throughout the dry season (May to September) rather than the wet season. It often snows, particularly in the wet season, and the sunlight is very powerful.
